By Uganda’s She Cranes are African champions again after defeating defending champions South Africa 56–53 in a tense final of the 2026 Africa Netball Cup at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi recently.
The victory ended an eight-year wait for Uganda, who last won the continental title in 2018. It also marked the She Cranes’ fourth Africa Netball Cup title, following victories in 2014, 2017 and 2018.
Uganda went unbeaten throughout the tournament, defeating Nigeria, Zambia, hosts Kenya and Malawi in the group stage before overcoming Namibia 52–41 in the semi-final. South Africa reached the final after beating Malawi 62–46.
The final was a rematch of last year’s continental decider, when South Africa beat Uganda 56–34 in Lilongwe, Malawi, to retain the title. This time, the She Cranes held their nerve against the Proteas to reclaim the crown.
Uganda’s success was built on accurate shooting, disciplined possession and strong defensive pressure. Christine Namulumba, Shadiah Nassanga and captain Racheal Nanyonga led the attack, while Margaret Baagala was influential in the centre. Nassanga was named Best Goal Shooter, while Baagala received the Best Midcourt Player award.
The Nairobi tournament also formed part of Africa’s qualification pathway for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia. Uganda and South Africa had already secured their World Cup places through the World Netball rankings, while Malawi and Namibia earned the continent’s additional places through their performances in Nairobi.
For the She Cranes, the continental crown now belongs to Uganda again.
